Secretary General praises Slovenian commitment to NATO missions

Slovenia was commended for its commitment to Smart Defence, as well as to NATO missions in Kosovo and Afghanistan by NATO Secretary General Anders Fogh Rasmussen during talks with Slovenian leaders on Thursday (5 July).

“Your contribution to our missions proves that despite tough economic times, Slovenia can be counted upon,” the Secretary General said after talks with Slovenia’s Prime Minister Janez Janša. “That is why we greatly appreciate your participation in Kosovo and Afghanistan. You are showing a strong commitment to Kosovo and you are doing a great job in helping to advise and train Afghan security forces.” Mr Fogh Rasmussen voiced his gratitude for Slovenia's announcement it would stay committed to a new NATO-led training mission in Afghanistan after 2014, as well as Prime Minister Jansa's announcement of its financial contribution of 500,000 US dollars to the sustainment of the Afghan security forces.

The Secretary General also noted Slovenia’s positive role in fostering regional cooperation. He welcomed Slovenia’s participation with Croatia and three countries in the Adriatic region that aspire to NATO membership to provide training and mentoring to Afghan security forces at the military police school in Kabul. “Together, those countries are building stability in Afghanistan and cooperation between themselves. They are building security in the heart of Asia and in the heart of Europe,” the Secretary General said.

“Slovenia is an example for this region. Your integration into NATO and you membership in the European Union show what you can achieve,” he added.

During his talks the Secretary General also praised Slovenia’s support of the Alliance’s Smart Defence approach, meant to ensure that NATO has the necessary capabilities to address future security challenges. ”We welcome the fact that Slovenia is an active proponent of Smart Defence,” he said. “You have already signed up to several multinational projects, including the Alliance Ground Surveillance programme, training and on sharing medical treatment facilities.” Slovenia is participating in eight multinational projects in all.

The Secretary General was also to hold talks with President Danilo Türk and Gregor Virant, the President of the National Assembly of the Republic of Slovenia during his one-day visit to Slovenia’s capital Ljubljana.